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The Chile Wire

Abe Baldonado

Real News For Real New Mexicans.

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  • 23 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 56 min
  • English
Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.
  • #28
    April 8 · 52 min

    From Chaparral to the Capitol: Ben Luna’s Run for Change

    In this week’s episode of the Chile Wire, we sit down with House District 53 candidate Ben Luna to talk about the story behind his campaign and what’s driving his run for office. Ben shares his personal background, the experiences that shaped his values, and the path that led him to step into the political arena. Representing the community of Chaparral, New Mexico, he discusses the unique challenges facing the district and why he believes now is the time to bring new leadership and a strong voice to Santa Fe. We also dive into his priorities, what he hopes to accomplish if elected, and how he plans to advocate for the people of District 53. From local concerns to broader policy goals, Ben lays out his vision for better representing and delivering results for his community. Tune in for a candid conversation about leadership, service, and the future of Chaparral.

    • Transcript
  • #27
    April 1 · 40 min

    The American Dream in New Mexico: A Conversation with Didi Okpareke

    This week on The Chile Wire, host Abenicio Baldonado sits down with Ndidiamaka “Didi” Okpareke, a pharmacist, small business owner, mother, wife, and Republican candidate for New Mexico’s 1st Congressional District. In an era where many feel the "American Dream" is slipping away, Didi’s story serves as a powerful reminder of what is possible through faith, hard work, and a commitment to community. A graduate of Sandia High School and the UNM College of Pharmacy, Didi isn't just a candidate—she’s a mother and a local entrepreneur who sees firsthand the challenges facing New Mexico families. In this episode, we dive deep into: • Who is Didi? We go beyond the campaign trail to learn about her roots, her journey as a healthcare professional, and the values that guide her. • Family & Community: Didi discusses why her role as a "mom on a mission" is the driving force behind her run for Congress and how we can restore the foundations of our local communities. • The American Dream: Hear Didi’s inspirational perspective on why New Mexico is still the "Jewel of the Southwest" and what it will take to ensure the next generation has the opportunity to thrive here. • A New Trajectory: From tackling the healthcare provider shortage to improving our education system and public safety, Didi shares her vision for a stronger, more prosperous New Mexico. Whether you’re concerned about the future of our state’s economy or looking for a leader who understands the daily realities of New Mexicans, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. Visit Didi's website: https://www.didiforcongress.com/

    • Transcript
  • #26
    March 25 · 40 min

    Safe Haven or Danger Zone? The Bombshell Investigations into NM’s Minor Consent Laws

    New Mexico has become the Wild West of medical procedures for minors—and parents are being systematically locked out of the room. This week on The Chile Wire, Abe sits down with Jodi Hendricks, Executive Director of New Mexico Family Action Movement, to pull back the curtain on a few bombshell investigations that should send a shiver down every parent's spine. We are diving deep into the dark reality of how New Mexico’s current laws allow minors from across the country to access life-altering abortion and gender-affirming care with zero parental notification or consent. While Santa Fe politicians tout these policies as "progress," the investigation reveals a much more sinister landscape: a system that effectively creates a safe-haven for predators and a conduit for human trafficking. In this episode, we discuss: The Investigation: The shocking findings that show how easy it is for out-of-state minors to be funneled into New Mexico for procedures without a single phone call home. Parents in the Dark: How the state is actively stripping away parental rights, leaving families powerless during the most personal and permanent decisions a child can make. The Human Cost: The lifelong physical and emotional impacts these rushed, un-vetted decisions have on minors. The Accountability Gap: Why are the entities facilitating these procedures not asking more questions? Are they providing care, or are they providing cover for those who mean children harm? New Mexico is being marketed as a "sanctuary," but for whom? Join us as we expose the loopholes that are putting vulnerable children at risk and leaving parents as the last to know. Podcast Resources- New Mexico Sentinel Investigation: https://www.nmsentinel.com/2026/03/12/undercover-video-shows-how-new-mexico-clinic-helps-texans-circumvent-abortion-ban-even-for-underage-pregnant-teens/ Townhall Media Investigation: https://townhall.com/tipsheet/kyleolson/2026/03/10/drag-queen-staffs-school-clinic-explains-rebranding-of-gender-affirming-care-to-avoid-federal-scrutiny-n2672551 Universal Childcare Study: https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2025/11/05/universal-child-care-can-harm-children

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Showing 21–23 of 23 episodes